Design Codes

The design search code is a numerical classification index which codifies design figurative elements into categories, the most general classification, divisions, subsets of categories, and sections, subsets of divisions. The design search code is the equivalent of a filing system for paper records, such as, the system in use in the Trademark Search Room. Each design element in a specific section is assigned a six-digit number. The first two numbers, which may range from 01 to 29, indicate the category; the second group of two-digit numbers, which may be any odd number between 01 to 25, indicates the division; and the third group of two-digit numbers, which may range from 01 to 33, indicates the section. For example, category 01 represents celestial bodies, natural phenomena and geographical maps. Division 01 in category 01 (01.01) represents stars. Section 03 in division 01 in category 01 (01.01.03) represents five pointed stars.

The design code also contains explanatory notes, such as, specific guidelines which provide instructions for specific code sections, cross-reference notes which direct users to other code categories, sections and divisions and notes describing elements which are included or excluded from a code section.

Generally, users of this manual are interested in finding the 6-digit design code corresponding to a design element so search for marks with that design element on TESS, the Trademark Electronic Search System. On TESS, design codes are strictly coded as 6-digit numeric fields. Periods are not included in the TESS design codes. In this manual, design codes may be searched either with the embedded periods (e.g., 15.05.01) or using the simple numeric string (e.g., 150501) as used on TESS.

Example: Enter either 150501 or 15.05.01 to retrieve records with text descriptions for design code 15.05.01, a design code for trademarks incorporating typewriters in the design.

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